After my 11-year-old daughter and I viewed the news coverage of a recent tragic event, I found myself compelled to engage her in a conversation about social justice. I hadn’t premeditated my approach; it simply felt right to address the emotions stirred by what we had witnessed. I now believe that utilizing two essential questions can foster meaningful discussions on this vital topic.
Question #1: What are your thoughts on what we just observed?
I was surprised by the intensity of my daughter’s emotions. While I expected her to have some level of concern, I also recognized that this age group can sometimes be preoccupied with their own world. However, she was visibly upset. With furrowed brows and a passionate tone, she expressed her frustration and disappointment.
I listened attentively, allowing her to articulate her feelings without judgment. In truth, I felt a sense of pride in her indignation. It’s crucial for everyone, especially the youth, to recognize that feeling angry about injustice is natural and justified. As Frederick Douglass once said, “It’s easier to build strong children than repair broken men.” Acknowledging one’s feelings is a necessary step before moving forward.
Question #2: What changes would you suggest?
This question is particularly valuable because it encourages open-ended thinking and creativity. It removes the pressure of expecting a young person to solve a complex issue single-handedly and instead emphasizes the collective responsibility we all share in addressing systemic injustices.
My daughter proposed that better screening processes should be implemented for those entering law enforcement. “That’s an intriguing perspective,” I responded, encouraging her to elaborate. She then brainstormed ways to improve police training to identify and mitigate biases before candidates earn their badges.
The second question transitions our dialogue from mere discussion to actionable steps. Now, we can take significant strides! We can explore local police training programs, foster connections with community officers, and express to them how much we value ethical policing and the importance of movements like #BlackLivesMatter. This engagement not only amplifies our voices but also holds them accountable for their role in the community.
As we embark on this educational journey together, it’s imperative that we collectively examine our privileges and utilize them constructively. Conversations about social justice must be ongoing, allowing our young ones to express their anger, discover solutions, and feel empowered to take action.
For further reading, check out this compilation of literature on race for children, suitable for various ages, and consider these five practices to help nurture anti-racist values in our kids. If you’re interested in more insights, read this blog post on home insemination, or explore this expert resource for more information. Also, the CDC provides excellent guidance on pregnancy and related topics.
In summary, fostering discussions around social justice with our tweens is essential. By employing the ‘two questions’ method, we can help them articulate their feelings and think critically about solutions, paving the way for a more just future.